§ 24 and 43. Mr. Evelyn Kingasked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (1) if he will initiate an inquiry into the effects of rural and urban planning policies on shop costs and food costs;
(2) if he has studied the proposals in his possession relating to new out-of-town and other shopping centres in relation to rent and shop costs; and what action he proposes to take in view of their possible effect on food prices.
§ Mr. PriorYes; I am aware of the consultation document on out-of-town and other shopping centres which my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment is discussing with the local authority associations and retail trade organisations and of which my hon. Friend has a copy. I do not think any further action is called for at this stage.